Attraction Guide: Boot Hill Cemetery, Tombstone, United States

Boot Hill Cemetery Guide

Rest in Peace: A Walk Through History at Boot Hill Cemetery Guide

Step into the past at Boot Hill Cemetery, Tombstone's historic graveyard and the final resting place for many of the town's pioneers, outlaws, and victims of the Wild West. This iconic cemetery offers a poignant glimpse into the lives and deaths of those who shaped Tombstone's tumultuous history. It's a must-see for anyone interested in the legends and lore of the American frontier. Boot Hill Cemetery, originally known as the Tombstone Cemetery, gained its infamous nickname because many of those buried there "died with their boots on," meaning they met a violent end. The cemetery was active from the late 1870s to the early 1880s, a period of rapid growth and lawlessness in Tombstone. Among those buried here are Billy Clanton, Frank McLaury, and Tom McLaury, who were killed during the infamous Gunfight at the O.K. Corral. The headstones, many of which are simple wooden markers, tell stories of hardship, adventure, and untimely demise. Visitors can wander through the cemetery, reading the epitaphs and reflecting on the lives of those buried there. The cemetery is well-maintained and offers informative signage that provides historical context. You can also take guided tours that delve deeper into the stories of the individuals buried at Boot Hill. While there isn't a specific culinary tradition associated with the cemetery itself, Tombstone offers a variety of dining options that reflect the town's Western heritage, including saloons serving traditional fare and restaurants offering hearty meals.